Understanding Eyelid Swelling: Common Symptoms and Causes

Our eyelids are quite complicated functional skin tissue that comprises tear glands, eyelashes, sebaceous glands, and sweat glands. For various reasons, one or more tissues can sometimes become inflamed, causing swollen eyelids.

A swollen eyelid is mostly a symptom and not a condition. Because the eyelid skin tissue is stretchy and loose, it swells noticeably in response to inflammation. There is nothing to worry about if you find your eyelid swelling up suddenly. It is best to go for eyelid swelling treatment to eliminate the cause from the root.

Symptoms of Eyelid Swelling

When your eyelids swell up, there must be an underlying cause, like an infection or allergy. Along with swollen eyelids, you might have some of these symptoms:

1. Sensitivity to light
2. Eye irritation – extremely scratchy or itchy sensation
3. Redness of the eyelid
4. Watery eyes due to excess tear production
5. Obstructed vision
6. Inflammation of conjunctiva and red eyes
7. Soreness because of an infection
8. Eyelid flaking or dryness
9. Eye discharge

These symptoms might be due to an eye infection or some allergic reaction. The symptoms can be seen in the upper or lower eyelid. There is nothing to worry about if the swelling disappears in a day or two. However, if the swelling and discomfort persist, consult a doctor immediately for timely swollen eyelid treatment. 

Common Causes of Eyelid Swelling

Now that you have an idea of the symptoms of swollen eyelids, let us take a look at the probable swollen eyelid causes:

• Chalazion or Styes – these are painful lumps on the eyelids, often turning red
• Various allergies
• Conjunctivitis or pinkeye
• Eye infections like orbital or periorbital cellulitis
• Eye injuries
• Infection from contact lenses
• Fluid retention around the eye area
• Eyelid flaking or dryness
• Blepharitis – inflammation around the eyelash base
• Insect bites
• Lack of sleep

In case the swelling eyelids are due to an infection, you must see a doctor immediately and look for swollen upper eyelid treatment as soon as possible. 

Swollen Eyelid Treatment Options

You can have swelling in the upper as well as in the lower eyelids. If you are looking for eyelid swelling treatment in Orlando, here are some ways in which you can deal with the eyelid swelling effectively:

• Medications: If the swollen eyelid is due to some infection, you will need oral antibiotics, antibiotic eye drops, topical medicine like some ointment, and so on. These will not only help in removing the infection but also ease the various symptoms. Steroids are also administered in case of severe infections.  
• Using eye drops: You can purchase over-the-counter artificial tears eye drops. These lubricate the eyes, keeping them moist. The eyes feel soothed and comfortable. If your swollen eyelids are due to allergies, antihistamine drops work excellently.
• Give your eyes some rest: Your eyes need rest, too. Stop wearing contact lenses or eye makeup when you have swollen eyelids. Wait for a few days till the symptoms disappear completely before you do eye makeup or wear contact lenses.
• A warm compress works wonders: Take a clean and soft cloth and run it under warm water. Hold it gently on the eyes as a compress. Do this for 15 minutes twice daily. The crusty discharge from the eyes loosens up. If oil plugs your glands, it will be removed with the compress.
• Wash the eye area gently: Take a cotton cloth or swab and gently clean the eyelids using water and baby shampoo once the compress is over. Make sure that you rinse your eyelids properly.
• Avoid direct sun exposure: Avoid direct sun exposure when the symptoms of eyelid swelling persist and even when they reduce. Try getting as much sleep as possible.

How Much Time Does It Take to Reduce Eyelid Swelling?

If eyelid swelling is due to some allergy or lack of sleep, it usually goes away within a day or two without needing any medical intervention. However, if the swelling is due to some infection or other underlying medical causes, it might take time to reduce and heal. Medications, including antibiotics, might be needed to treat the infection and reduce the symptoms.

Right Time for Consulting a Doctor

Eyelid swelling generally gets healed on its own within 24-48 hours. If the swelling persists with pain, discharge from the eyes, and discomfort, contact a doctor immediately.

Especially look out for symptoms like double vision, vision loss, protruding eyes, or fever. See a doctor immediately if you notice any of these signs.

Eyelid Swelling Prevention

Here are certain points to keep in mind for eyelid swelling prevention:

• Practice proper hygiene if you wear contact lenses. Wash your hands before taking out or wearing the lenses.
• Get allergy tests done if you have swelling eyelids due to allergies, and stay away from the stimulants.
• While buying eye drops, try to get preservative-free eye drops.
• Choose eye makeup products that are fragrance-free and hypoallergenic.

Consider Remagin for All Your Eye Care Needs

If you are looking for quality eyelid swelling treatment in Orlando, look no further than Remagin, the leading eye care center in Orlando. Get the best eye care in Orlando with excellent doctors, state-of-the-art technologies, and customized treatment plans. At Remagin, our highly-trained eye doctors will find the cause of your eyelid swelling through a thorough and complete eye check-up and start the necessary treatment. Contact us today for further information.